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In the olden days, budding geniuses picked up a paintbrush or sharpened their quill. But judging by the preponderance of short films at the Turner Prize - supposedly an event for painters and sculptors - the camera now holds the key.
So who exactly is going to seize the mantle of Scorsese, Lynch and Loach? Well, if you're curious about the efforts of up-and-coming moviemakers, you could hardly do better than head for Krakow this November. The Etiuda and Anima Festival has been a beacon for young filmmakers for fourteen years now, and a number of stars have made their name at the event, not least Oscar winner Florian Gallenberger. 
Etiuda and Anima swings open its doors to film and art school students across the globe. Young hopefuls compete for the coveted gold, silver and bronze dinosaurs and jabberwockies. Feature, documentary and experimental films are all in the running. And if you're not shacked up at an arts school you're still in with a chance. students. Since 1996, the festival has broadened its horizons to include animated films (ANIMA section), and independent artists are welcome to submit their work.
Etiuda & Anima 2007
Alongside the Etiuda and Anima competitions, there's a smorgasboard of complementary events that are sure to tantalise Krakow's legions of film buffs. Krakheads can savour a selection of Germany's finest avant-garde films, and there'll be a special programme entitled '50 years of English Free Cinema'.
On the animated front, a special Golden Jabberwocky will be awarded to Estonian legend Priit Parn (b.1946), creator of such animated classics as Night of the Carrots and Breakfast on the Grass. Mr. Parn is now a teacher at the Arts Academy of the Turku Polytechnic, Finland, and all his most acclaimed work will be screened during the festival. These animated aces will be complemented by short films by Parn's proteges in Turku.
Etiuda & Anima 2008
This year, cinephiles can savour a host of inspiring extras alongside the main events. Japan and Hungary come under the spotlight in a combined review of classic animated films. There will also be world premieres of movies by seasoned masters such as Bill Plympton (Idiots and Angels) and Nina Paley (Sita Sings the Blues). Celebrated composer Normand Roger also comes into focus. This virtuoso seems to have the golden touch - of his ten films to be nominated for an Oscar, half came away with gold. Look out for some picks from the maestro's back catalogue this November.
As usual, the festival is being hosted at Kino Kijow, which has the enviable perk of the biggest screen in town. For more information, film buffs can explore the official website:
Etiuda & Anima Official Site
14th until 21st November 2008
All in all, Etiuda & Anima looks set to provide a feast for film lovers. Don't miss it if you're in Krakow this November!
XV Etiuda & Anima Film Festival
November 14th-21std, 2008
Krakow, Poland
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